Millions of people across the UK are dealing with hot conditions as temperatures continue to climb, with the scorching bank holiday weekend weather setting a new record for 2026. A popular way to get a light, refreshing breeze inside is to plug in an electric fan — but many have been told they could be using fans in the least 'optimal' way.
While an electric fan can help with the heat and humidity, there's a strong chance that many Brits are using theirs 'wrong'. It may sound strange, but people have been told that, reportedly, the 'best' direction to point a fan is actually away from you.
Experts at Which? recently shared an online tip, suggesting that having a fan face towards an open window could help people feel considerably cooler. Given that much of the UK is currently basking in temperatures of up to 30C, this advice would apply to most homes.
A Which? team member said: "If it's cooler outside than inside, try pointing your fan out of an open window instead of directly at you. Fans don't cool the air, they move it, so this can help push hot air out of the room and draw cooler air in through other windows or gaps."
Once outdoor temperatures dip below those inside your home, reverse the fan so it faces inwards. This draws fresh, cool night air directly into your bedroom, reports the Express.
How long will this hot weather last?
The sweltering heat from the bank holiday weekend is expected to ease slightly but remain above average for this time of year, according to experts. Today, Tuesday, May 26, is set to be another "very hot day", as confirmed by the Met Office.
A spokesperson said: "A peak of 35C is again expected in London, the Home Counties and Cambridgeshire. More widely, temperatures exceeding 30C will again be reached across eastern Wales, and eastern, southern and central England away from immediate coastal areas."
Forecasters predict the scorching conditions will continue throughout the week, with highs of 31C anticipated for Wednesday, 30C on Thursday, 27C on Friday and 28C on Saturday.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster, Steve Kocher, said: "It is likely that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend, with forecast temperatures surpassing the existing record of 32.8C. As well as it being hot, there will be lots of dry and sunny weather for much of the UK."
What other ways can people stay cool?
During most heatwaves, shop shelves are rapidly cleared of electric fans as shoppers snap them up the moment temperatures become unbearable. However, it isn't the only solution - particularly at night when humidity can leave you restless and unable to sleep.
If you have the time, get your bedroom ready throughout the day by replacing heavy duvets with lightweight cotton or bamboo sheets. Many people have found success by popping pillowcases or socks into a plastic bag and freezing them for about 20 minutes before bedtime, leaving them refreshingly cool rather than frozen solid.
During the day, keep your windows and curtains closed to keep the sun's heat out, then throw them wide open at night once the temperature outside falls below that indoors. Have a cool (not cold) shower just before turning in to boost blood flow to the skin, which prompts a natural reduction in your core body temperature and signals to your brain it's time to drift off.
If you are only trying to cool one specific room, close all the doors and windows in the rest of your home except for the bedroom window and a window at the opposite end of the house. This channels the fresh air straight to you.
